Jun 23, 2025 - News
Charted: Most popular languages in Indiana
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German is the most commonly spoken language in the Hoosier state other than English and Spanish, per new census data.
Why it matters: The numerous languages spoken nationwide reflect both the history of settlement and colonization and modern immigration patterns.
By the numbers: Indiana is home to 566,800 residents who speak a language other than English at home, and 295,400 of them speak Spanish.
- There are 26,930 primarily German speakers, narrowly edging out 22,310 Pennsylvania German speakers and 18,410 Chinese speakers as the most popular language other than English or Spanish.
The intrigue: Pennsylvania German — also known as Pennsylvania Dutch — is a dialect that developed in the rural parts of southeastern and central Pennsylvania during the 18th century. It's still popular among the Amish and Mennonites.